Vietnam is long, lively and wonderfully easy to travel once you know the options. Cities buzz with motorbikes, the coast is stitched together by cheap flights and overnight trains, and a phone app can summon a ride in minutes. Here is the practical rundown, whether you are here for a week or a month.
Ride-hailing apps (start here)
Grab is the everyday workhorse, letting you book a car or motorbike with an upfront, cashless price and no haggling. Be (a local app) and Xanh SM (electric cars and bikes) are strong alternatives. Download at least one before you land.
Motorbike taxis (xe om)
The fastest way through city traffic is on the back of a motorbike, now easily booked through the same apps with a helmet provided. Ideal for short hops when a car would just sit in gridlock.
Metered taxis
For traditional taxis, stick to well-known, reputable companies and insist on the meter. Booking a car through an app avoids fare surprises entirely and is usually the simpler choice.
Domestic flights for long distances
Hanoi to Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City are long drives but short, inexpensive flights on carriers like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet and Bamboo Airways. For crossing the country, flying saves a full day.
Trains and sleeper buses
The north-south railway is a scenic, relaxed way to travel, with sleeper cabins for overnight legs. Sleeper buses are the budget option and reach places trains do not, though comfort varies.
A private car with driver
For comfort, day trips or anyone recovering from treatment, a private car and driver is affordable by Western standards and takes all the logistics off your plate. This is what a concierge typically arranges for our patients.
On foot and by cyclo
Old quarters and beachfronts are best explored slowly on foot, with the occasional cyclo (a cycle rickshaw) for a gentle, old-fashioned tour. Cross the road at a steady, predictable pace and the traffic flows around you.
Put one ride-hailing app on your phone and the whole country opens up. Mix apps for the cities, flights or trains for the long hauls, and a private driver whenever comfort matters most.
